How to Instantly Refresh Your Topknot the French-Girl Way

In summer, it’s imperative to seek out creative ways to “appear” pulled together so not to expose how you really feel: hot, sticky, and over it. Enter the topknot; a somewhat obvious choice, it allows you to gather every last heat-generating strand from your face and neck while exuding both effortlessness and elegance in one fell swoop, or sweep. But if sporting the piled-high style since the start of summer has you feeling tired, consider a refresher course with the addition of an accessory (or two).

Take a cue from Lou Doillon, poster child for laissez-faire hair, by swaddling your head in a silk scarf. (Considering all it took was an undone bow to transform Doillon’s disheveled twist into a style appropriate for Paris Couture. . .) If you prefer your headband of the ready-made variety, Gucci offers a silk satin logo-mad option that you can simply slide on. Have a flair for the dramatic? Jennifer Behr designed a somewhat theatrical cross between a turban and a headwrap that affords something a bit more to the otherwise simple style. Adding metallic details, like the Chloe and Isabel’s feather bun cuff, instantly upgrades any look from insouciant to outdoor wedding–ready. Or, take a fancier, more Italiana approach by affixing a pair of Rosantica pom-pom hair bands to your bun. And if you’re not one to hide your true feelings, consider spelling them out with a handful of Lelet NY mono gold-plated hair slides to pepper the look. (Hot AF, anyone?) Either way, a little embellishment goes a long way when it comes to your topknot, not to mention your no-sweat scheme to surviving the rest of the season.